Ear Surgery

Misshaped or protruding or ears can make children the target of schoolyard teasing; for adults, prominent ears can cause self-consciousness. Cosmetic ear surgery (otoplasty) is one of the most common cosmetic plastic surgery procedures and, when performed by a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon such as Dr. Chase Lay, can result in natural-looking ears that don’t draw attention away from your face.

If you live in the San Francisco Bay Area and are considering otoplasty for yourself or your child, please request a consultation online to meet with Dr. Lay, or call his San Jose practice at (408) 358-3888 to schedule an appointment.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Otoplasty?

Cosmetic ear surgery is a popular choice for young children because the cartilage is still relatively easy for a surgeon to manipulate and reshape. Dr. Lay can perform otoplasty at his San Jose office on children as young as 5 or 6, although children who are small for their age shouldn’t undergo surgery until they grow a bit more.

Young adults often choose to get otoplasty and can have this performed under local anesthesia. Many young professionals have the surgery performed on a Thursday or Friday and often find they can return to work the following week because the incisions and sutures are often hidden. Recovery is typically 7 to 10 days and sutures are removed 7 to 9 days after surgery. Successful otoplasty surgery will result in your ears lying closer to your head, without appearing to be stuck, or unnatural.

Real Answers From Dr. Lay

“Even though most people think ear pinning surgery is primarily performed on children, more adults undergo otoplasty than children.”

What Should I Expect?

Cosmetic ear surgery on adults is almost always performed using local anesthesia or under light intravenous sedation. Children typically require IV sedation. The incisions are made so that they will ultimately be hidden by the ear itself. Mild to moderate pain is normal after surgery, and patients must wear gauze and bandages around their heads for 24 hours.

A follow-up appointment the day after the surgery will ensure there are no complications. You’ll also be given a headband you will wear temporarily to hold your ears in place. Dr. Lay provides detailed pre- and post-operative instructions to patients and their caregivers.View Gallery